Bawumia: Democracy Should Ensure Progress, Not Just Survival
Bawumia: For Democracy to Thrive, It Must Prioritize Poverty Alleviation and People’s Basic Needs
- Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has highlighted a critical threat to democracy in Africa
- Bawumia pointed to the alarming poverty levels in Sub-Saharan Africa
- “The best democracy is one that delivers on its promises,” he said
Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has highlighted a critical threat to democracy in Africa: the struggle for basic survival, which he refers to as “the Next Meal.” He argued that true democracy must go beyond institutional structures and focus on improving the lives of citizens.
In a recent statement, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that democracy should not be an abstract concept but must lead to tangible outcomes that positively impact the lives of the people.
He noted that while democracy is often discussed in theoretical terms, its true measure lies in its ability to deliver real, meaningful improvements.
“We cannot talk about democracy in the abstract. It must be about outcomes that improve people’s lives,” he said.
Bawumia pointed to the alarming poverty levels in Sub-Saharan Africa, where, according to the World Bank, two-thirds of the world’s population living in extreme poverty reside.
He stressed that addressing this dire poverty crisis is essential not only for economic stability but also for the health of democratic systems.
“The priority for many Africans is survival. When people are struggling to secure their next meal, democracy becomes a secondary concern,” he explained.
Referencing the 2024 World Bank report on Nigeria, which reveals that more than half of the population lives in multidimensional poverty, Bawumia underscored that widespread poverty weakens political integrity.
People preoccupied with basic survival are less likely to engage with the political system or trust democratic processes.
“The best democracy is one that delivers on its promises,” he said. “When citizens do not have to worry about their survival, they can more fully embrace democratic values and engage meaningfully in the political process.”
In closing, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the future of democracy in Africa hinges on effective governance that prioritizes the well-being of its people. “Only when people are assured of their basic needs can they fully embrace the values of democracy,” he concluded.
